Ricky’s Rockets ?: Saratoga Picks for July 16, 2020

Opening day at Saratoga is like none other. While we can’t be there as fans, from a distance, we can still enjoy the co-features: the Schuylerville Stakes (G3) and the Peter Pan Stakes (G3).

Along with changing to give you my daily Late Pick 4 tickets, I’m happy to introduce the first full-card edition of Ricky’s Rockets! These previews for every race include must-use and bubble horses, suggested tickets to play, and my top four selections. I’m extremely excited for the launch and can’t wait to make everyone some money this meet! 

Best of luck!

Race 7: Allowance for New York-bred fillies and mares 3-year-olds and upward going 1 1/16 miles (8 1/2 furlongs) on the inner turf

#1 Astoria Kitten put forth one of her better efforts last time out and her speed’s tactical advantage should help her establish position into the first turn. #8 Pandamom faces winners for the first time as she looks to continue the momentum from her gate-to-wire win last time out. #9 Summer At the Spa looked fantastic in her return from a layoff last time out. As a deep closer, the added distance should play right into her hands.

Race 8: Schuylerville Stakes (G3) for 2-year-old fillies going 6 furlongs on the dirt

#3 Beautiful Memories sparkled in her debut at Churchill Downs at the end of May. She opened up with every stride and was geared down in the stretch. She clearly is the filly to beat and deserves to be the post-time favorite. #8 Hopeful Princess also won on debut at Churchill Downs, and while her victory wasn’t as impressive, it was strong enough that Stonestreet Stables bought her privately and sent her to Steve Asmussen. He will get the most out of her as she looks to stay undefeated in her second start.

Race 9: Peter Pan Stakes (G3) for 3-year-olds going 1 1/8 miles (9 furlongs) on the dirt

#2 Country Grammer was competitive against some of these competitors earlier this year and makes his second start off the layoff for Saratoga’s best jockey (Irad Ortiz, Jr.) and trainer (Chad Brown). #3 Modernist may not be the Kentucky Derby contender that I thought he was a few months ago, but he’s still my most likely winner based on his past form. #5 Candy Tycoon is looking to gain momentum as the summer progresses, and with a strong performance, he could find himself in the Travers Stakes (G1) later this meet. #6 Mystic Guide has come on strong in just 3 career starts, all since February. With an expected fast pace, Mystic Guide’s late-running style sets him up perfectly as he moves up in class. #7 Caracaro makes his return to the rack off of a six-month layoff. Known for his prowess at Gulfstream Park, Gustavo Delgado ships his Triple Crown nominee north for his stakes debut.

Race 10: $40,000 Claiming for fillies and mares 3-year-olds and upward going 5 1/2 furlongs on the outer turf

#1 Secure Connection makes her debut at the claiming ranks for Shug McGaughey. After facing much better at the allowance level, she should enjoy the drop down in class. #2 Doll made a good return to the track in her first start since leaving Jason Servis’ barn. Manny Franco has ridden her well in the past and should have her forwardly placed into the turn.

THE TICKET

50¢ PICK 4 (Races 7-10) 1,8,9 / 3,8 / 2,3,5,6,7 / 1,2,6 – $45

Thursday, July 16, 2020

For my full card plays, featuring race by race analysis, my top four picks for each race, and full card multi race wagers, check out my new product below: 

Ricky’s Rockets: Saratoga